Target Shooting Game

ABSTRACT

A target shooting game including a shooting device for projecting a signal or projectile; a target having a target surface including a target area; and at least one indicator associated with a portion of the target area and for indicating an interaction with the signal or projectile. A method of playing a target shooting game is also disclosed.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to target shooting, including real and virtual shooting devices and systems and, in particular, to a target shooting game that provides some indication of an interaction with a signal or a projectile and/or includes an appropriate set of rules identifying the attempts to interact, order of attempted interaction, manner of interaction and/or permitted or suggested interaction with discrete, positioned targets of a target area on a target.

2. Description of the Related Art

According to the prior art, in the practice and use of firearms, paper targets are used at a firing range. As is known, these paper targets typically consist of “bullseye” targets, where a shooter attempts to score “hits” as close to the center of the bullseye as possible. Similarly, paper targets are available that have the design of some animal thereon, such that the shooter may practice his or her accuracy in “hitting” the appropriate area of the animal. However, other than these well-known paper targets, there are few other options for shooters for increasing their accuracy, while, at the same time, enjoying their time at the range.

Also according to the prior art, there has been developed various paper targets that provide a more visible indication of the point of impact between the projectile and the target surface. For example, the target may include some colored ink or other reflective substance applied underneath an outer target layer. Once impacted, the ink or reflective material is exposed, thereby better demonstrating where on the target surface the shooter has “hit”. For example, such targets have been developed in accordance with U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,188,371 and 5,580,063. However, while providing a better indication to the shooter of where the projectile has hit the target, such targets are only designed as discussed above. Specifically, such targets are only available in the “bullseye” form or as an animal likeness.

While the use of firearms at a firing range is one manner of shooting projectiles at targets, such activities also occur in a “game” and/or virtual world. In particular, there are available many video games or activities that use some shooting device, often in the form of a handgun, to direct a signal, e.g., light, laser, etc., onto some surface capable of detecting this signal. Specifically, many of the “gun-type” games allow the user to activate or trigger the projection of this signal against a monitor or screen, which is capable of detecting precisely where on the screen such contact has occurred. However, there remains considerable room for improvement in the creation of these “gun-type” video games, especially in view of the increasing technical aspects of the computer industry and accuracy of detecting interactions between a signal and a video monitor surface.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Therefore, it is one object of the present invention to provide a target shooting game that overcomes the drawbacks and deficiencies of the prior art. It is another object of the present invention to provide a target shooting game that allows one or more shooters to play the target shooting game in a competitive format. It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a target shooting game for use in connection with firearms that shoot a projectile towards a target surface, such as a paper target or the like. It is a still further object of the present invention to provide a target shooting game that provides some indication of a successful “hit” on the target surface, which is easily visible to the shooter. It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a target shooting game that provides some indication of a “hit” within the context of the game. It is another object of the present invention to provide a target shooting game that is useful in connection with a shooting device that projects a signal towards the target surface, such as a video screen or monitor. It is a further object of the present invention to provide a method of playing a target shooting game.

Accordingly, and in one non-limiting embodiment, provided is a target shooting game. The game includes a shooting device configured to project a signal or projectile and a a target having a target surface including a target area. At least one indicator is associated with a portion of the target area and indicates an interaction with the signal or projectile.

In another embodiment, a method of playing a target shooting game is provided. The method includes: (i) projecting, by a shooting device, a signal or projectile towards a target having a target surface including a target area having a plurality of discrete, positioned targets; (ii) associating at least one indicator with a portion of the target area and indicating an interaction with the signal or projectile; and (iii) providing a set of rules identifying at least one of the following: the attempts to interact with the discrete, positioned targets of the target area; the order or attempted interaction with the discrete, positioned targets of the target area; the manner of interaction with the discrete, positioned targets of the target area; the permitted interaction with the discrete, positioned targets of the target area; the suggested interaction with the discrete, positioned targets of the target area.

These and other features and characteristics of the present invention, as well as the methods of operation and functions of the related elements of structures and the combination of parts and economies of manufacture, will become more apparent upon consideration of the following description and the appended claims with reference to the accompanying drawings, all of which form a part of this specification, wherein like reference numerals designate corresponding parts in the various figures. It is to be expressly understood, however, that the drawings are for the purpose of illustration and description only and are not intended as a definition of the limits of the invention. As used in the specification and the claims, the singular form of “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic view of one embodiment of a target shooting game according to the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a schematic view of a further embodiment of a target shooting game according to the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a front view of another embodiment of a target shooting game according to the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a front view of a further embodiment of a target shooting game according to the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a plan view of a still further embodiment of a target shooting game according to the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a schematic view of yet another embodiment of a target shooting game according to the present invention;

FIG. 7 is a scorecard for use in connection with a target shooting game according to the present invention;

FIG. 8 is another embodiment of a scorecard for use in connection with a target shooting game according to the present invention;

FIG. 9 is a plan view of a still further embodiment of a target shooting game according to the present invention;

FIG. 10 is a plan view of a still further embodiment of a target shooting game according to the present invention;

FIG. 11 is a plan view of a still further embodiment of a target shooting game according to the present invention; and

FIG. 12 is a plan view of a still further embodiment of a target shooting game according to the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

For purposes of the description hereinafter, the terms “upper”, “lower”, “right”, “left”, “vertical”, “horizontal”, “top”, “bottom”, “lateral”, “longitudinal” and derivatives thereof shall relate to the invention as it is oriented in the drawing figures. However, it is to be understood that the invention may assume various alternative variations and step sequences, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification, are simply exemplary embodiments of the invention. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics related to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting.

It is to be understood that the invention may assume various alternative variations and step sequences, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification, are simply exemplary embodiments of the invention.

The present invention is directed to a target shooting game, as illustrated in various forms and embodiments in FIGS. 1-12. As discussed in detail hereinafter, the target shooting game 10 of the present invention may be used in a variety of environments, including at a shooting range, in some situation where firearms may be utilized, in the context of a physical or interactive game, or in connection with a virtual environment, such as in the user's home, arcade, etc. Accordingly, a variety of shooting devices may be utilized, including firearms, pistols, guns, rifles, “play” guns, gun-type devices, devices capable of projecting a projectile or signal, laser-type guns, light-emitting guns, etc. Accordingly, all of these various environments and shooting devices are contemplated within the context of the present invention.

One embodiment of the target shooting game of the present invention is illustrated in schematic form in FIG. 1. As illustrated, in this embodiment, the target shooting game 10 includes some shooting device 12, which is capable of projecting or “shooting” a signal or projectile 14. The game 10 further includes target 11 with a target surface 16 having a target area 18. In addition, at least one indicator 20 is associated with or becomes associated with at least a portion of the target area 18. It is this indicator 20 that indicates or makes the user or shooter aware of some interaction with the signal or projectile 14. In this manner, the user wielding the shooting device 12 is able to easily understand that he or she has interacted with or impacted the target surface 16 within the target area 18 at the specific point of interaction/impact.

As discussed below in connection with the method of playing the various embodiments of the game 10, when the target 11 is a paper target and the shooting device 12 shoots or projects a projectile, the indicator 20 may be a hole punched in the target 11 as a result of the impact. However, the surface of the target 11 may be configured or adapted to provide an indicator 20 indicating some interaction with a projecting signal, where the substrate of the target 11 is capable of providing some visual indication to the user. When engaging in the method of playing the various embodiments of the game 10, and when the target is a visual display device (such as a television or monitor) and the shooting device 12 projects a signal, the indicator 20 is some visual indication of an interaction between the signal and a specific or specified portion of the visual display device.

In another embodiment, and as illustrated in FIG. 2, the game 10 includes a key surface 22, which includes a target area 18 that matches the target area 18 of the target surface 16. In one embodiment, the target area 18 is a grid 24 of discrete, positioned targets 26. Further, in this embodiment, the user may place a physical indicator 20 in the form of an attachable element 28, such as a sticker, adhesive substrate, applicable material, liquid material or the like. Further, in this embodiment, the attachable element 28 may be formed from an activated, reactive or indicative material that, when interacted with or impacted, provides some positive and visual indication to the user regarding such impact/interaction.

Therefore, as seen in this embodiment, the user simply places the attachable elements 28 in the appropriate individual target 26 in the grid 24. Next, the key surface 22 is placed beneath or attached to the target surface 16, such that the respective grids 24 match. When another player shoots at the grid 24, at least a portion of the attachable elements 28 (in the form of the indicator 20) are visible, and would indicate that a “hit” has occurred. In this embodiment, the players would take turns shooting at a respective target surface 16, in an attempt to see who could expose all of the attachable elements 28 (or indicators 20) first. This “hit” may be indicated based upon interaction with a signal and/or a projectile.

As also seen in the embodiment of FIG. 2, a set of rules 30 may be positioned on the target surface 16, and this set of rules 30 would provide the users with the appropriate directions for playing the target shooting game 10. For example, the set of rules 30 may indicate which attempts can be made to impact or interact with the target surface 16, the order of attempts, the manner of and/or permitted or suggested interaction with the target surface 16, what constitutes a “hit” and other similar suggested rules for playing the target shooting game 10 of the present invention.

Accordingly, in another embodiment, the present invention is a series of target surfaces 16, such as in the form of a paper target, that include the target area 18 and indicators 20, together with a set of rules 30, which enables the target shooting game 10 to be provided to consumers in a single package. In most instances, the target shooting game 10 of the present invention would not be provided with the shooting device 12, as such regulated devices and other firearms must be lawfully acquired by the user.

In a further embodiment, and as illustrated in FIG. 3, the target surface 16 and key surface 22 are integrated on a single substrate 32, i.e., the target 11. Specifically, the target area 18 (e.g., the grid 24) is printed or applied to a first side 34 of the substrate 32, as well as a second side 36 of the substrate 32. The user would then place the attachable element 28 (or indicator 20) in the desired targets 26 of the grid 24 on the first side 34 (the key surface 22) of the substrate 32. Once the substrate 32 is positioned down-range or away from the other player, this other player or shooter would shoot the shooting device 12 towards the second side 36 of the substrate 32. Due to the attributes and characteristics of the indicator 20, the other player would understand whether he or she has “hit” the appropriate targets 26. The attachable element 28, which may be in the form of a sticker, may be formed from a colored ink compound, a photoreactive material, a colored material, a liquid material or any similar arrangement that would provide some positive indication of an interaction between the signal or projectile 14 and the target surface 16.

Of course, while in the above-discussed embodiments, the user is capable of choosing on which targets 26 to apply the attachable elements 28, it is further envisioned that the target surface 16 is pre-printed with appropriate indicators 20. For example, as seen in FIG. 4, the target 11 is manufactured or “pre-printed” with the indicators 20 positioned within or otherwise integrated with the substrate 32, such that the positioning of the discrete targets 26 is obscured. In this manner, neither of the players would know where the other player's intended discrete and positioned targets 26 are located within each respective target area 18. In such an embodiment, the substrate 32 may be manufactured to include multiple layers, including the indicators 20 covered by some layer that blocks or obviates the ability of the user to understand where the indicators 20 are located on the target surface 16. Similarly, such an arrangement would be beneficial to players that are utilizing the game 10 to play by themselves. Specifically, the user would have no idea where the targets 26 are on the target surface 16, thereby playing a game 10 against “themselves.”

A still further embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 5. In this embodiment, the target area 18 does not include a grid 24, and instead includes distinct and positioned targets 26 at specified areas throughout the target area 18. In this embodiment, the target shooting game 10 is a golf-type game. Accordingly, the target surface 16 is designed to include various golf holes 38 having distinctly placed sets 40 of targets 26. In particular, each set 40 includes two targets 26, one for a first player and one for a second player. Some example rules for such a game may be found in FIGS. 7 and 8.

In summary, each player alternates shots and attempts to impact the target 11, and specifically the positioned, discrete targets 26, at desired locations along each golf hole 38. The player's score is assessed according to the number of shots, and where the shots impact the target surface 16. In order to add an additional element of chance to the game, the holes 38 may include various hazards 42, which would lead to additional “strokes” for the player who shoots them. In addition, the targets 26 may include concentric rings, such that the closer the player “hits” the center of the target 26, the fewer strokes assessed to his or her score.

FIG. 5 illustrates only one example embodiment of a target shooting game 10, which is in the form of a golf-type game. Any number of similar variations may be used to simulate a variety of sports or other similar competitive activities. For example, other games that could be used in connection with the target shooting game 10 of the present invention include targets 11 directed to baseball, basketball, hockey, soccer, etc. While the rules for “playing” these variations of games may be slightly different, the spirit and scope of the present invention is not altered. In particular, the shooter is attempting to impact or otherwise interact with specific targets 26 (or the target area 18) on the target surface 16 in order to score a “hit”, which may lead to points, scores and other similar scoring events.

In the golf-type game illustrated in FIG. 5, the indicator 20 may simply be the hole in the target occurring as a result of an impact from a projectile projected from a shooting device 12, such as a firearm. Accordingly, the users may need the use of binoculars or other sighting equipment in order to verify that a “hit” has been made. Alternatively, the above-discussed indicator 20 may include attachable elements 28, or some other indication mechanism that demonstrates that the specific and desired targets 26 have been impacted or interacted with. For example, as discussed above, the indictor 20 may be a layer of material disposed beneath the targets 26, which provides a more easily visualized sign of interaction or impact.

A further embodiment is illustrated in FIG. 9, and in this embodiment, the target area 18 includes distinct and positioned targets 26 at specified areas throughout the target area 18. In this embodiment, the target shooting game 10 is a racing-type game, in particular a race car game. The target surface 16 is designed to include specifically-positioned cars 46 having distinctly placed sets 48 of targets 26. Each set 48 includes two targets 26 (or cars 46), one for a first player and one for a second player. In another embodiment of a racing-type game, and as seen in FIG. 10, the cars 46 are substituted with horses 50. Example rules are provided in FIGS. 9 and 10.

In summary, in one embodiment of this racing-type game embodiment, each player alternates shots and attempts to impact the targets 26 at the center of the car 46 or horse 50. In particular, each player attempts to hit the target 26 of the first set 48 and, upon hitting the target 26, advances to the next target 26 of the next set 48. In this manner, the player moves around the track towards the finish line, and the first player to reach the finish line wins the game. Any number of cars 46 (or horses 50) may be provided in the set 48 to accommodate additional players. Any number of racing-type games are envisioned, including, but not limited to, gun fights, space wars, swimming, cross country skiing, bicycles, etc., which would entail a start line and a finish line in a racing environment.

A still further embodiment is illustrated in FIGS. 11 and 12. In this embodiment, the target area 18 includes multiple and specifically positioned targets 26 at specified areas throughout the target area 18. In this embodiment, the target shooting game 10 and target 11 are in the form of a baseball-type game. The target surface 16 is designed to include specifically-positioned diamonds 52 having distinctly placed sets 48 (normally one set for each player for each inning) of targets 26. Each set 48 includes three targets 26 (or diamonds 52), one for a first player and one for a second player. Each diamond 52 includes an out area 54, a strike area 56 (optional), a single area 58, a double area 60, a triple area 62 and a homerun area 64. Example rules are provided in FIGS. 11 and 12.

In summary, the baseball-type game is played as follows. In one alternative (FIG. 11), the game may be played from the perspective of the pitcher, wherein the shooter attempts to hit the out area 54 three times by hitting the out area 54 (or target 26 corresponding therewith) three times. Shots not impacting the out area 54 would constitute “hits” for the opponent corresponding to the area 58, 60, 62, 64 impacted by the pitcher. “Base runners” advance based upon the area 58, 60, 62, 64 impacted. For example, hitting the single area 58 will advance any runner on base by one base, hitting the double area 60 will advance any runner on base by two bases, etc. The game score is based upon the number of runners reaching home plate in any particular inning. Once the pitcher hits the out area 54 three times, the next player takes his or her turn.

In another alternative of the baseball-type game, and as illustrated in FIG. 12, the game is played from the perspective of the batter. In this alternative, the shooter attempts to hit the hit areas 58, 60, 62, 64 as many times as possible in the inning, without hitting the out areas 54 or strike areas 56. Advancement of runners and scoring is as discussed above.

In a still further embodiment of the present invention, and as illustrated in FIG. 6, the target shooting game 10 is played in a virtual environment. In this embodiment, a visual display device 44, such as a computer screen, a monitor, a television, a handheld device, etc. is utilized as the target 11 and target surface 16. However the operation of the target shooting game 10 in this environment is similar to the physical, firearm environment discussed above. In particular, the user must still point and shoot some shooting device 12 towards the target surface 16 (or visual display device 44). However, in this virtual or computer-implemented environment, many additional design features may be utilized. For example, the indicator 20 may be both visual, as well as audible, i.e., the indicator 20 may include some sound, voice or phrase that indicates a “hit” has been made. The use of this oral indicator 20 increases the level of excitement and fun had by the user when engaging in the target shooting game 10.

The set of rules 30 may be similar to the set of rules 30 discussed above in connection with the paper target surface 16. However, in this virtual environment, many of the features can be automated, such as keeping scores, providing hints and otherwise interacting with the players. Further, in this environment, the shooting device 12 may project a signal 14, which includes a light, a laser, etc.

Still further, and in another embodiment, the target surface 16 is projected upon a wall or other surface. Of course, the projected target surface 16 would require the appropriate equipment and software in order to recognize a “hit” as some interaction is made with the target area 18 of the projected target surface 16. Regardless of the detailed functioning of calculating, sensing or otherwise triangulating the appropriate “hit” point, the target shooting game 10 operates as discussed above.

In this manner, the present invention provides a target shooting game 10 that can be used by one or more players in a variety of situations and environments. The target shooting game 10 of the present invention may be used in the physical environment of a shooting range or area (with a firearm or laser gun), or in the virtual environment (using some shooting device 12 that projects a signal towards the target surface 16 of the target 11). Further, the target shooting game 10 of the present invention provides training for the shooters, and improves their accuracy, while, at the same time, allowing the shooters to have a much greater level of excitement and fun when engaging in these activities.

Although the invention has been described in detail for the purpose of illustration based on what is currently considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that such detail is solely for that purpose and that the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments, but, on the contrary, is intended to cover modifications and equivalent arrangements that are within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. For example, it is to be understood that the present invention contemplates that, to the extent possible, one or more features of any embodiment can be combined with one or more features of any other embodiment. 

1. A target shooting game, comprising: a shooting device configured to project a signal or projectile; a target having a target surface including a target area; and at least one indicator associated with a portion of the target area and configured to indicate an interaction with the signal or projectile.
 2. The target shooting game of claim 1, wherein the shooting device is at least one of the following: a firearm, a pistol, a gun, a rifle, a “play” gun, a gun-type device, a device capable of projecting or shooting a projectile or signal, a laser-type gun, a light-emitting gun.
 3. The target shooting game of claim 1, further comprising a key surface having a target area substantially corresponding to and aligned with the target area on the target surface; wherein the at least one indicator is an attachable element applicable to at least a portion of the key surface, such that after interaction with the signal or projectile, the attachable element indicates the interaction.
 4. The target shooting game of claim 3, wherein the attachable element is at least one of the following: a sticker, at least partially formed from an activatable material, at least partially formed from a reactive material, at least partially formed from an indicative material, a visual indicator, at least partially formed from a colored ink compound, at least partially formed from a photoreactive material, at least partially formed from a colored material, in the form of an applicable material, in the form of an adhesive substrate, in the form of a liquid material.
 5. The target shooting game of claim 3, wherein the key surface is disposed on at least one of the following: a separate target, a separate target surface, a surface on the reverse side of the target, an attachable surface, a paper surface.
 6. The target shooting game of claim 3, wherein the target surface and the key surface are integrated on a single substrate and at least a portion of a target area of the key surface substantially corresponds and is aligned with the target area of the target surface.
 7. The target shooting game of claim 1, wherein the at least one indicator is positioned in a predetermined location in the target area, and the at least one indicator is at least partially obscured until interaction with the signal or projectile.
 8. The target shooting game of claim 1, wherein the target area includes a plurality of discrete, positioned targets; the game further comprising a set of rules identifying at least one of the following: the attempts to interact with the discrete, positioned targets of the target area; the order or attempted interaction with the discrete, positioned targets of the target area; the manner of interaction with the discrete, positioned targets of the target area; the permitted interaction with the discrete, positioned targets of the target area; the suggested interaction with the discrete, positioned targets of the target area.
 9. The target shooting game of claim 1, wherein the game is at least one of the following: a golf-type game, a racing-type game, a baseball-type game, a hockey-type game, a football-type game, a soccer-type game.
 10. The target shooting game of claim 9, wherein the target is a paper target and the shooting device projects or shoots a projectile, wherein the at least one indicator is a hole punched in the target surface.
 11. The target shooting game of claim 1, wherein the target is a visual display device and the shooting device projects a signal, wherein the at least one indicator is a visual indication of an interaction between the signal and a specific portion of the visual display device.
 12. A method of playing a target shooting game, comprising: projecting, by a shooting device, a signal or projectile towards a target having a target surface including a target area having a plurality of discrete, positioned targets; associating at least one indicator with a portion of the target area and indicating an interaction with the signal or projectile; and providing a set of rules identifying at least one of the following: the attempts to interact with the discrete, positioned targets of the target area; the order or attempted interaction with the discrete, positioned targets of the target area; the manner of interaction with the discrete, positioned targets of the target area; the permitted interaction with the discrete, positioned targets of the target area; the suggested interaction with the discrete, positioned targets of the target area.
 13. The method of claim 12, wherein the target shooting game is a golf-type game and the discrete, positioned targets are a visual representation of at least one golf hole.
 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the set of rules indicates a number of strokes assessed based upon the position of the at least one indicator on the target surface as a result of the projection.
 15. The method of claim 12, wherein the target shooting game is a racing-type game and the discrete, positioned targets are a visual representation of at least one racing object.
 16. The method of claim 15, wherein the discrete, positioned targets are a plurality of sets of racing objects, wherein the set of rules directs interaction with a first or subsequent racing object based upon the position of the at least one indicator on the target surface as a result of the projection.
 17. The method of claim 12, wherein the target shooting game is a baseball-type game and the discrete, positioned targets are a visual representation of at least one baseball object.
 18. The method of claim 17, wherein the set of rules indicates at least one of a hit, a single, a double, a triple, a homerun, a run, a strike, an out, a pitch, a throw or any combination thereof, based upon the position of the at least one indicator on the target surface as a result of the projection.
 19. The method of claim 12, wherein the target is a paper target and the shooting device projects or shoots a projectile, wherein the at least one indicator is a hole punched in the target surface.
 20. The method of claim 12, wherein the target is a visual display device and the shooting device projects a signal, wherein the at least one indicator is a visual indication of an interaction between the signal and a specific portion of the visual display device. 